Premium Finance Collections Manager

In this role you'll lead the execution of in-life and debt strategies to maximize recoveries, minimize bad debt, delivering outstanding customer outcomes. You will drive continuous improvement in collections processes, manage key third-party relationships, and champion a data-driven, customer-centric approach to debt management. This role is pivotal in shaping our premium finance proposition and supporting the wider business strategy.

Responsibilities

• Provide ongoing commercial and customer oversight of Premium Finance, supporting budget and reforecast setting.
• Champion a customer‑centric approach, ensuring collections strategies support financial recovery and positive customer outcomes.
• Strategy & Process Improvement

• Lead the development and execution of collections strategies to optimize recovery rates and customer experience.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging technology and analytics to enhance arrears and debt collection processes.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as recovery rates, bad debt reduction, and customer satisfaction.

• Manage, coach, and develop a high‑performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer focus.
• Proactively take responsibility for the line management of all direct reports, ensuring optimal performance and professional growth.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders (credit, product, pricing, risk) and external partners (DCAs, debt purchasers, trade bodies).
• Oversee third‑party performance, ensuring compliance with contractual and regulatory standards.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with external suppliers, driving value and continuous improvement.

• Ensure all collections activities comply with FCA, CONC, and internal policies.
• Maintain robust controls, risk registers, and governance documentation.
• Support the design and implementation of new propositions and changes to improve customer value and regulatory compliance.
• Comply with the requirements, and act in accordance with, the Group Code of Conduct and Fitness and Propriety policies at all times.
• Ensure compliance with Company Policies, Values and guidelines and other relevant standards/ regulations at all times.

Qualifications

• Payment collection experience within the Financial Services industry.
• Recent line‑management and leadership experience.
• Knowledge and experience of Consumer Credit Regulations.
• Excellent experience in collections management, preferably in insurance or premium finance.
• Proven track record managing third‑party vendors and delivering against KPIs.
• Experience working within a highly regulated environment.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency with collections technology, CRM systems, and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong time management, organization, and attention to detail.

Knowledge

• Excellent knowledge of premium finance principles and regulations.
• Strong understanding of motor insurance products and industry distribution channels.
• Detailed understanding of FCA requirements (including TCF) and First Central's corporate strategy.

Behaviours

• Customer‑centric, commercially focused, and results‑driven.
• Agile, collaborative, and committed to continuous improvement.
• Professional, confident, and personable with a flexible approach.
• Analytical by nature, with a focus on data‑based decision making.
• Inclusive leadership style, valuing diverse perspectives.

So, if you're up for the challenge and would like to join our vibrant and busy team, we want to hear from you today.